# NHTSA Modernizes Headlight Standards

> NHTSA updates headlight rules to fix glare and align with global standards.
- Title: NHTSA Modernizes Headlight Standards · Road & Track | Shortify
- Summary: NHTSA updates headlight rules to fix glare and align with global standards. NHTSA is modernizing U.S. headlight standards to address glare and align with…
- Keywords: nhtsa, headlight standards, adaptive driving beams, glare, fmvss 108, u.s. vehicle lighting regulations, international safety standards, cars, sports, Modernizes, Headlight, Standards
- Source: Road & Track — https://roadandtrack.com/news/a74055384/nhtsa-says-its-finally-modernizing-headlight-standards
- Author: Zac Palmer
- Published: 2026-10-06T19:23:31+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: nhtsa, headlight standards, adaptive driving beams, glare, fmvss 108, u.s. vehicle lighting regulations, international safety standards, cars, sports
## NHTSA updates headlight rules
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced Tuesday it is modernizing U.S. vehicle lighting standards to address glare and improve safety.
## Previous attempt failed
NHTSA updated FMVSS 108 in 2022 but created unique U.S.-specific rules that no automakers met, except Rivian and Tesla.
## Five key areas for change
NHTSA will address headlight glare, modernize lighting technology, improve performance, update testing materials, and align global standards.
## Public criticism of glare
A recent AAA study found six in ten American drivers consider headlight glare a serious issue, and a 2025 U.K. study found 96 percent of drivers think most headlights are too bright.
## NHTSA administrator comments
NHTSA administrator Jonathan Morrison said today’s standards don’t allow new safety technologies, so they’re modernizing rules to foster innovation and keep roads safer.
## Public comments deadline
Public comments on the new headlight standards can be submitted until November 9 this year, with no timeline for when new regulations will be issued.
## Key takeaway

NHTSA is modernizing U.S. headlight standards to address glare and align with international safety rules after previous attempts failed.